Shared paths

Many shared path facilities are there because cyclists have campaigned for them, including the Jubilee path across Stourbridge Common.

The high number of cyclists in Cambridge means busier paths, but shared paths offer benefits including:

a sense of safety in numbers on isolated routes

alternatives to busy roads and junctions

routes that children and less confident cyclists can use

further reducing Cambridge's traffic congestion and carbon footprint.

Be safe on shared paths

Cyclists and pedestrians need safe and attractive routes around the city. However, conflicts do occur and pedestrians can be left feeling vulnerable - especially the elderly and visually impaired - when cyclists speed close by without warning.

The message from pedestrians who feel intimidated by cyclists can have an effect on local decisions about cycle access. It is up to cyclists to behave appropriately and make sure facilities remain open to them.

Techniques, skills and common sense

As a cyclist you cannot always expect to use shared paths for high-speed travel­ - different skills and techniques are needed from road cycling: